Translation guide
A burial mound is an ancient raised earthwork covering a grave or tomb. In Japanese contexts, this often refers to the large keyhole-shaped tombs of the Kofun period, but can also describe similar structures in other cultures.
Referring to the large, often keyhole-shaped, earthen tombs built for powerful figures in Japan from the 3rd to 7th centuries.
The standard term for ancient Japanese burial mounds, especially the keyhole-shaped ones from the Kofun period. Used in historical and archaeological contexts.
There is one of the world's largest burial mounds in Osaka.
The Kofun period lasted from the 3rd to the 7th century.
Describing a mound of earth raised over a grave in any culture, without specific reference to Japanese archaeology.
A general archaeological term for a burial mound, often used for non-Japanese or prehistoric mounds. More technical than 古墳.
Many burial mounds remain in Europe.
A general word for a mound or hillock, often used for smaller or less formal burial mounds, or in place names. Can also refer to non-burial mounds.
Literally 'burial mound', a descriptive term that is less common and more technical. Used when clarity is needed.
Using the formal archaeological term 'tumulus' (plural: tumuli) to refer to a burial mound, often in academic or museum contexts.
A formal term for a tomb or grave mound, often used in archaeological reports. Can refer to the mound itself or the entire tomb structure.
This tumulus dates back to before the Common Era.
Specifically a round burial mound, as opposed to the keyhole-shaped type. Used in Japanese archaeology.
古墳 specifically refers to the burial mounds of the Kofun period in Japan, often keyhole-shaped. 墳丘墓 is a more general archaeological term for any burial mound, including those outside Japan or from other periods. Use 古墳 when talking about Japanese history; use 墳丘墓 for cross-cultural or generic contexts.
Old mounds are scattered around this area.
A burial mound was discovered during the excavation.
There are many round burial mounds in this region.